1. Handbook for U.S. Host Families
of Thai Participants

2.
Table of Contents
Foreword.......................................................................................................................................1
Objectives of Handbook............................................................................................................1
Thai Culture Quiz..........................................................................................................................2
Answers to Thai Culture Quiz ...................................................................................................3
Introduction ...................................................................................................................................5
What is Culture? .......................................................................................................................5
The Cultural Iceberg .................................................................................................................5
Generalizations and Stereotypes..............................................................................................7
Culture and Perception .............................................................................................................9
Communication...........................................................................................................................10
Greetings ................................................................................................................................10
Communication Styles ............................................................................................................10
What Does “Yes” Actually Mean? ...........................................................................................13
Mai Pen Rai ............................................................................................................................13
Showing Negative Emotions ...................................................................................................14
Volume and Tone of Voice......................................................................................................14
Eye Contact ............................................................................................................................15
Disagreements........................................................................................................................15
Conflict Resolution ..................................................................................................................16
Nicknames ..............................................................................................................................17
Independence/Dependence........................................................................................................18
Religion & Beliefs........................................................................................................................19
Attending Religious Services ..................................................................................................19
The Middle Way – Guiding Life Philosophy ............................................................................20
Ramadan for Muslim Students................................................................................................21
Life Cycle Customs .................................................................................................................22
Religious and National Symbols .............................................................................................23
Holidays ..................................................................................................................................25
Color Days ..............................................................................................................................26
Family Life...................................................................................................................................27
Urban vs. Rural .......................................................................................................................27
Relationships with Friends and Siblings..................................................................................27
Friendships .................................................................................................................................29
Schools .......................................................................................................................................30
Social Activities and Sports at School.....................................................................................31
Homework...............................................................................................................................31
English Learning .....................................................................................................................32
Muslim Students at School .....................................................................................................32
School Support .......................................................................................................................33
School Fees ............................................................................................................................33
Open or Closed Campus.........................................................................................................33
Social Values ..........................................................................................................................34
Personal Hygiene....................................................................................................................34
Other Factors..............................................................................................................................36
Economy .................................................................................................................................36
Internet Availability..................................................................................................................36
Environmental Issues..............................................................................................................37
Concept of Time in Thailand ...................................................................................................37

3.
Thai Food and Etiquette..........................................................................................................37
Modesty/Nudity/Sexuality............................................................................................................39
Modesty ..................................................................................................................................39
Nudity/Sexuality ......................................................................................................................40
Diversity/Prejudice/Disability.......................................................................................................42
Diversity ..................................................................................................................................42
Disabilities...............................................................................................................................43
Acknowledgements.....................................................................................................................44
Appendix A – Activities ...............................................................................................................45
Communication .......................................................................................................................45
Appendix B – References and Further Reading .........................................................................46
Web Sites................................................................................................................................46
Appendix C – More Information about Schools ..........................................................................48
Appendix D – Holidays by Month................................................................................................52
Appendix E – Cultural Tip Sheet for YES Students ....................................................................56

4.
1
Foreword
Thank you for volunteering to welcome a young student from Thailand into your home, family,
and community! The coming months will present a multitude of learning opportunities for both
you and your participant.
Objectives of Handbook
This Handbook for U.S. Host Families of Thai Participants is dedicated to and directed toward
you, the host family. You represent one of the indispensable ingredients required for our
international exchange programs to be successful. The information contained here will also be
shared with exchange-program support volunteers so that they too will better understand the
Thai student’s world view and will be able to provide culturally-sensitive and appropriate support
to both the hosted student and the host family.
Awareness of the existence of cultural differences and how to deal with these differences can
have a profoundly positive impact on the quality of your relationship with your participant and on
your entire family’s hosting experience. To this end, this handbook is designed to help you
learn about both the Thai and U.S. culture by examining a number of cultural topics which are in
strong contrast with each other. We hope that you will find these to be especially interesting
and informative:
 Traditions and rituals
 Key differences between the U.S. and Thai school systems
 Predominant communication styles in the U.S. and Thailand
 The general Thai and U.S. views on concepts such as time, space and privacy
 Thai family structure and rules
 Thai cultural norms regarding personal appearance, religion and other aspects
Of course, you are not expected to read through this entire Handbook in one sitting! At first you
will probably want to familiarize yourself with its contents, read intensively those areas of special
interest and then, during the coming weeks, continue to refer back to the various topics as
situations occur. We hope that you will enjoy yourselves as you and other family members join
together with your Thai student in a journey of self and cultural discovery.

5.
2
Thai Culture Quiz
Perhaps you already know a lot about Thai culture. Or maybe you only know a little. In either
case, you may find the following questions interesting. After you have answered these
questions, check the answers which follow. Regardless of whether you got the answer right or
wrong, you’ll want to read the sections referenced in the answer sheet.
1. T/F – Thai people eat rice at every meal.
2. T/F – Thai customs dictate that you do not wash all of your clothes together, but rather
keep socks and underwear separate.
3. T/F – It is very important to Thai family members that they discuss everything with each
other and try to resolve individual differences or differences of opinion about a broad
range of topics, including politics.
4. T/F – Thai people are generally fun loving and have a good sense of humor.
5. T/F – Food is eaten with chopsticks in Thailand.
6. T/F – Thai culture tends to help people focus on the common good.
7. T/F – Male students in Thailand do not wear pink.
8. T/F – Thai students are often focused on getting good grades.
9. T/F – Thai students engage in debate and classroom discussions where people express
their own opinions.
10. T/F – Thai students tend to appear emotional.
11. T/F – Children are served and start eating first at Thai family meals.
12. T/F – A Thai student who slumps his shoulders, lowers his head and looks down while
being corrected is listening politely and being respectful.

6.
3
Answers to Thai Culture Quiz
1. Thai people eat rice at every meal.
TRUE –Rice is the staple of the Thai diet. Food is only considered a meal when it
includes rice. Increasingly Thais who live in urban areas have broadened their diets.
Noodles or Japanese food may be eaten as a snack. Bread is not generally chosen.
(See section on Thai Food)
2. Thai customs dictate that you do not wash all of your clothes together, but rather wash
socks and underwear separate from other clothing.
TRUE – This practice is rooted in Buddhism, a religion which 94.6% of Thais practice.
Buddhism views the head as reverent and the feet as unclean, so underwear and socks
are kept separate from other items. (See section on Religion)
3. It is very important to Thai family members that they discuss everything with each other
and try to resolve individual differences of opinion about a broad range of topics,
including politics.
FALSE – Thai families usually do not discuss problems or make decisions as a family.
U.S. families are much more likely to have family “meetings” and have children openly
oppose a parent’s decision. Thai children’s honor of parents and teachers means that
even if the child disagrees, the Thai child will defer to the parent or the elder. (See
section on Communication)
4. Thai people are generally fun loving and have a good sense of humor.
TRUE – The Thai culture promotes enjoyment of nearly all situations. People like to joke
and play games with each other. (See section on Communication)
5. Food is eaten with chopsticks in Thailand.
False – Food is eaten with a spoon and fork. Noodles may be eaten with chopsticks.
(See section on Thai Food)
6. Thai culture tends to help people focus on the common good.
TRUE – The Thai’s cultural framework incorporates elements of Buddhism, which create
a mind-set that requires people not to offend anyone. As a result, Thais want harmony
and cooperation before dissent or criticism. (See section on Religion)
7. Male students in Thailand do not wear pink.
False – Pink clothing is a normal color for both males and females. Pink is one of the
King’s colors. Different days of the week are represented by different colors. On
Tuesdays many people, including government workers, wear pink. (See section on Color
Days)

7.
4
8. Thai students are often focused on getting good grades.
True – In order to get into the best schools, in Thailand students generally attend extra
academic classes after school to prepare for entrance exams to both high school and
college. (See section on Schools)
9. Thai students engage in debate and classroom discussions where people express their
own opinions.
False – Thai students are discouraged from questioning teachers in class so as not to
show disrespect for the teacher. (See section on Communication)
10. Thai students tend to appear emotional.
False – Thai people generally do not show their feelings by displaying strong emotional
reactions in public. This sometimes leads to misunderstandings of a Thai students likes
and dislikes by U.S. host families who may openly display their own emotions. (See
section on Conflict Resolution)
11. Children are served and start eating first at Thai family meals.
False – Thai children expect to wait for the eldest at the table to start eating before they
should begin to eat. (See section on Thai Food)
12. A Thai student who slumps his shoulders, lowers his head and looks down while being
corrected is listening politely and being respectful.
True – To show respect for authority, a Thai student being corrected will lower
themselves and keep quiet. They are accustomed to listening politely and not
responding verbally after being corrected. (See section on Eye Contact)

8.
5
Introduction
What is Culture?
Intercultural experts have defined culture in the following ways:
Culture is the collective programming of the mind which distinguishes the members of
one category of people from another. – Geert Hofstede
That whole which includes knowledge, beliefs, art, laws, morals, customs, and any
capabilities or habits acquired by one as a member of a certain group. It is passed on
from generation to generation, and it shapes our behaviors and structures our
perceptions. – Donna M. Stringer and Patricia A. Cassidy
Its rules are often followed unconsciously. You may belong to any number of cultures, for
example a workplace culture, faith culture, generational culture, and/or geographically defined
culture. Each culture has its own set of characteristics that gives those within it a sense of
belonging to something larger than themselves or, on the other hand, of being different from the
norm for that culture.
The Cultural Iceberg
One way to understand the various parts of culture is by thinking about culture as if it were an
iceberg. The iceberg shows that some elements of culture are above the surface of the water
and are visible and we are aware of these aspects of culture because they are reflected in our
behaviors. Other cultural aspects that lie under the water line are invisible, and they aren't
obvious to us. These are what noted anthropologist Edward T. Hall calls the "hidden
dimensions" of culture, and they include our values, norms and beliefs.
(http://www.uop.edu/sis/culture/File/sec1-1-1h1.htm)
Culture is a set of behaviors, values, and beliefs created by groups of people, giving
them a sense of community and purpose.

9.
6
The visible and invisible parts of culture interact with each other in ways that you probably don't
normally stop to consider. For example, a common nonverbal behavior such as waving good-
bye is visible, but what that gesture means is invisible. In one culture it could mean “good-bye,”
in another “come here,” and yet another “go away.”
During the hosting experience you and your hosted participant may feel uncomfortable with a
situation but don’t quite know why. Chances are good that you are experiencing cultural
differences “below the surface of the water.” Being aware of this dynamic and the potential for
learning that exists within it are a huge part of the cultural learning process.
While your hosted participant is the newcomer in this scenario, as a host family member you too
will have the opportunity to gain a new perspective on both Thai and U.S. culture. This process
of mutual enrichment and learning is what thousands of participants, host families, and natural
families will tell you is at the heart of the hosting experience.
You may be wondering, How can I learn about myself through contact with someone different
from me? It is most often through the contrast between the two, that new awareness and
knowledge arise. In other words, you may not be aware of your own values, beliefs, and
customs until you come into contact with someone whose values, beliefs, and customs differ
from your own. The goal of this handbook is to help you build awareness of your own and your
participant’s culture in order to help you both have a more enjoyable and educational hosting
experience.
When two cultures, like two icebergs, collide, the real clash occurs not in those visible
differences but rather below the surface where values, beliefs and thought patterns
conflict.
Art by Michael Capozzola www.Capozzola.com

10.
7
Normal distribution of cultural preferences
Population
Individualism Collectivism
U.S. American Thai
Generalizations and Stereotypes
To help you along in this process of mutual discovery which the hosting experience presents, it
is often useful to look to cultural generalizations.
An example of a cultural generalization is the strongly held U.S. American value of
individualism. U.S. Americans tend to like to do things themselves and see themselves as
responsible for their own lives. This is reflected in popular expressions such as “pulling yourself
up by your own bootstraps.” Even the Nike slogan, “Just Do It” suggests that we control our
own destiny. But this doesn’t mean that all U.S. Americans value individualism in the same way
and to the same degree. Rather, on average, U.S. Americans hold this value and their culture
views this as a positive.
An example of a cultural stereotype would be “U.S. Americans are superficial and materialistic”.
To better understand the difference between cultural generalizations and stereotypes, please
refer to the figure below.
On the left side, U.S.
individualism (emphasis
on well-being of the
individual) is displayed. On
the right side is the Thai
value of collectivism. A
collectivist culture is one in
which the interests of the
group, whether it be family,
classmates, or community,
are given priority over those
of the individual. People
from such cultures tend to
avoid conflict and directly
revealing one’s feelings.
Maintaining harmony within
a group is very important in a collectivist culture. Family ties also tend to be stronger in
collectivist cultures than those in individualist cultures. (See the section on Family)
Cultural generalizations are defined as the tendency of the majority of people within
a culture group to share certain values, beliefs and behaviors. Generalizations do not
apply to all people within a culture group, and so should be used only as a guide to
understanding the group.
Cultural generalizations must not be confused with cultural stereotypes, which are
fixed ideas or exaggerated beliefs about every individual in the culture group. They are
often negative in nature and not tested.

11.
8
The bell-shaped curves represent normal distributions of cultural preferences for Individualism
or Collectivism. The mid-point of the bell curve for U.S. Americans shows that on average,
individualism is the dominant cultural value. However, the curve also shows that some U.S.
Americans are much closer to the collectivist value. Conversely, collectivism is the norm in the
Thai culture but some Thais can be found on the individualist side.
The shaded area shows how certain U.S. Americans and Thais may be more like each other on
this trait than they are like the average U.S. American or Thai person.
It is also important to keep in mind culture is not the only factor that influences behavior.
People can differ in many other ways, such as their likes and dislikes, personalities, and life
experiences. The situation at hand can also have an impact on how people behave. For this
reason, we emphasize that cultural generalizations should only be a starting point for
exploration and discussion on how your cultural values may be similar or different than
those of your participant.
The bell curves show that there is a great deal of value diversity within each
culture group, while at the same time there is a preferred or dominant cultural
value.
Figure 1
Factors that may influence behaviors

12.
9
Culture and Perception
Culture shapes your perception in the same way that what you
see can be changed by the color of glasses you wear. For
example, if you were to look at a yellow car while wearing a pair of
blue-tinted glasses the car would appear green. However, if you
were to view the same yellow car through pink-tinted glasses, it
would appear orange. Similarly, you and your exchange student
may see the same situation with two different “cultural lenses” or sets of values, norms and
beliefs. If you are not aware of the color of each other’s lens, in other words, the cultural context
of a given situation, conflict and misunderstandings are more likely to occur.
Imagine this scenario. A host family asks a newly-arrived Thai student if she
wishes to join the summer soccer club to make friends and have an activity
before school starts. The student says, “yes,” so the host family makes
arrangements for fees, uniforms, shoes and transportation. After a few practices,
the Thai girl says she feels sick and misses a practice. After the first game, she
complains to another player that she has pulled a muscle. Without telling her host
family or the coach, instead of going to practice the next week, she goes
somewhere else. Later in the week the coach asks a host parent when the
student will be healed enough to come to practice. The host parent is at first
surprised that the student has not been attending practices, then angry at the
Thai student that all the expenses have been paid and the arrangements for
transportation made and the student is not following through on her commitment
to play soccer.
What has created this conflict? The U.S. American host family value of individual choice
lead them to expect that when their Thai student said, “yes,” when given the choice to
play or not play soccer that she was expressing her desire to play soccer. The Thai
student value of เกรงใจ “kreng jai,” “be considerate,” plus respect for her elders
required her to reply with the answer she thought her host family wanted to hear. When
the student did not enjoy soccer practice she did not want to offend her family or coach
by telling them she did not want to go. Instead she said she was sick. When she still did
not like playing soccer after the game, she did not want to disrespect her coach by telling
her she would not play. She used indirect communication by telling another player she
would not be playing by telling her she had pulled a muscle. The other student did tell
this to the coach at practice when the Thai student was not in attendance. The Thai girl
does not want to be disrespectful to her host parents by telling them she does not like
the activity they suggested. She hopes they will understand when she does not go to
practice that she does not wish to play soccer. The U.S. American host parents wonder
why their student didn’t just tell them her preference or how things were going.

13.
10
Communication
Greetings
In Thailand people do not normally say 'good morning', 'good afternoon', 'good evening' or 'good
night'. They greet each other with the word sawadee, and instead of shaking hands, they put
their palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bow slightly. This gesture is called a wai. It is
customary for the younger or lower in status to begin the greeting. Most Thai students will
usually wai to their natural parents (and grandparents in an extended family situation) before
going to school and when coming back home. It is not necessary to return a wai to a child. Your
Thai student will be unlikely to continue to wai while in the U.S. but may do so out of habit when
first arriving.
Communication Styles
Direct and Indirect
In general, U.S. Americans consider themselves direct in their communication style. Compared
to many cultures, such as those found in Asia, this is true.
A direct style of communication is one in which the meaning of what is said is found primarily in
the words spoken.
In an indirect style of communication the meaning is more often derived from factors other than
what is said, such as the sender’s status relative to the receiver, the context of the situation, and
body language. Thai people tend to be indirect in their communications.
Direct communication is like “reading the headlines” and indirect communication is like “reading
between the lines.” In indirect cultures, the message is often not found in what people say or
do, but in what they fail to say or do.
The Thai students are not generally as vocal and blunt, they tend to answer what
they think you want to hear, avoid conflict. Very polite.
U.S. Host Family
The differences were huge! Thai people believe that it is rude to ask questions.
As a result we never knew if our student understood things or not, since she would
never ask questions. We thought the purpose of [the exchange] was to share
information by way of asking questions of each other. Obviously, that did not
happen with our experience. It was VERY frustrating for our family. She also did
not enter into any conversation around the table at dinner. Not sure if that was her
culture or just the way she was brought up. The family discourse at dinner is key in
America!
U.S. Host Family
คิดกอนพูด
Transliteration: kid-kon-pood
Literal: Think before speaking.

14.
11
It will be very difficult for your Thai child to change from an indirect to a direct style of
communication. It is going against everything that they have been taught. Thai children may
also not be used to holding a back-and-forth conversations with adults, only with other children.
Thai parents and teachers may act as mind-readers, anticipating a child’s thoughts instead of
asking a child to express his or her thoughts. It is really important for everything a Thai person
says to be “kreng jai,” “be considerate,” to filter what is said so it will not be negative towards the
other person. A Thai parent will tell her child “maybe” instead of “no” so as not to be too harsh
when the parent does not want a child to do or get something.
Encourage your Thai child to join you while watching TV or in an activity to start interacting in a
less direct way that may make them more comfortable. Do not asking open questions such as,
“How was your day?” which may make it more difficult for your student to answer. Instead ask
simpler, specific questions.
Thai people often eat quietly and have discussions with family members after
meals, perhaps while watching TV together. Your Thai student will need your
family’s help and encouragement to share their thoughts with you during meal
time.
Individually approach a student several times if you have questions. He or she
may not answer until he or she feels more comfortable with you.
At first, ask simpler, specific questions beginning with what, when and where so
students can provide short, direct answers.
Repeatedly encourage your student to share their opinion whether it is negative
or positive. Reinforce with your Thai child that it is perfectly OK to say “I don’t
like brussel sprouts, rap music, the color mauve…”
While Thais have a good sense of humor, U.S. American jokes may be difficult
for them to understand as they may not translate well into Thai. Be careful,
especially at the beginning of your hosting experience, when telling jokes that
are based on word meanings or pronunciations.
If you sense your participant is hesitant to share or has not shared with you an
accurate representation of his or her feelings on a particular subject or decision,
(for fear of hurting your feelings or displeasing you) asked a trusted third party
such as a host sibling or your liaison to have an informal conversation about the
same topic and compare notes.

15.
12
The following is an example of a person with a direct style of communication talking with a
person who has an indirect style:
Graphic Arts Teacher: Mae. What can I do for you?
Thai student: Excuse me. I need some help with this new machine.
Graphic Arts Teacher: Of course. Let me explain it again.
Thai student: I asked Mary, but she couldn't help me.
Graphic Arts Teacher: No, she hasn't tried it yet.
Thai Student: It's a little bit complicated.
Graphic Arts Teacher: It's very complicated, but after I explained it to you yesterday and asked
you if you understood, you said yes.
THAI Student: Yes. Please excuse me.
Mae is trying to save the Graphic Arts teacher’s face here, After all, if Mae says she doesn't
understand the explanation, then the teacher might feel badly that he didn't give a very clear
explanation, which the teacher might find embarrassing. Moreover, Mae expects that the
teacher will understand that the "yes" could only be for politeness sake. At least this is how it
would work in Mae's culture, where one has to be careful not to embarrass an expert. But in
more direct cultures, "yes" has a tendency to mean "yes" (not "I'm being polite"), and no one is
upset if another person doesn't understand the explanation.
When I asked our student what he would like to get from his American experience
he hinted he would like to go to Disneyland after school was out. He then proceeded
to save all his money for the trip and forego other adventures during the year. I felt
very badly when he went home with all his savings because I didn’t understand he
was relying on me, his host parent, to make all the arrangements or let him know it

16.
13
would not happen. I expected him to take more initiative by starting to make plans
and keep asking me about it if he still really wanted to go.
U.S. Host Family
What Does “Yes” Actually Mean?
Many former host families have commented on the politeness and accepting attitude of their
Thai students, but they have also expressed frustration over misunderstandings. Your
questions to them are important tools for understanding each other, but a Thai student’s answer
of “yes” can have other meanings than approval of your request. The word for “yes” in Thai has
at least 3 meanings, depending on the tone used.
U.S. Americans take the word “yes” to mean, “I will do it.” In an indirect culture “yes” can mean
– I heard what you said; not that I agree with you, nor that I will do what you asked me to do,
nor that I understand. It can mean only, “Yes, I heard you.”
We would spend several minutes with the dictionary so he could understand the
question – then he would give me a real answer.
U.S. Host Family
Mai Pen Rai
Mai Pen Rai means “never mind” (or more literally ‘it's nothing”). Symbolizing Thailand's
unofficial national philosophy, these three little words help to calm the nation. Mai Pen Rai
enables the Thai people to retain their composure, keep smiling and be happy in everything
they do. Thai people care little about trifling things. If they are frustrated, instead of getting angry
they simply say Mai Pen Rai and solve the problem by some other means. Thai people believe
strongly in avoiding confrontation, but this doesn’t mean that they don’t care.
Thai’s are also taught to “hint” at what they want and not to ask directly. If you
think your student is hinting about something, ask them directly.
Remind your Thai student that “yes means yes.” Explain to your student that by
saying yes it means that they are in agreement. Discuss with your student the
impact of saying “yes” when he/she really means “no.” Your Thai student will
need help in saying “no.”
It is probably a good idea to have your Thai student restate the question or
discussion to assure understanding. Have them tell you in their own words
what you just talked about so you will know that you are both in agreement.

17.
14
Showing Negative Emotions
Thailand is known as “Land of Smile” and Thai children are usually taught to have a smile on
their face whether they are happy, sad, mad or confused. They are usually very adept at
reading body language. If a host parent or student is showing they are upset, the Thai student
may become very worried because they seldom see negative emotions expressed in Thailand.
They may also think you are not happy with them.
Volume and Tone of Voice
You may also find that your Thai student’s voice is very soft and that he or she pauses for long
periods while talking with you. Thai children are raised to be polite at all times and in the Thai
culture politeness is demonstrated by keeping one’s voice low and finding just the right words so
as not to offend the other speaker.
She was very quiet. She did not initiate conversation. She nodded her head and
said “yes” a lot, even though I don’t think she really understood or meant to say
“yes!!!”
U.S. Host Family
People in Thailand people speak softly and are always aware of the tone of their words.
If you are in a bad mood or upset for reasons unrelated to your student,
reassure your student that you are not upset with him or her, but rather
something that happened at work, etc. so he or she will begin to understand that
U.S. Americans tend to show a large range of emotions, both positive and
negative.

18.
15
At first our Thai student thought a family member who was loud and direct was a
mean person or did not like having her in the house.
U.S. Host Family
Eye Contact
In Thai culture eye contact is important, but it is more polite to look down to show respect. Direct
eye contact between females and males can be considered as being too forward. To show the
proper respect for authority in Thai society, a person enters the room of a boss or principal and
keeps his or her head lower than the authority figure, even if it requires going down on one’s
knees to do so. A Thai student being corrected by a parent, teacher or principal will likely show
he or she understands and defers by appearing small, lowering his or her eyes, and keeping
quiet. He or she is not used to responding verbally in that situation.
The different expectations for eye contact can cause discomfort and misunderstanding between
Americans and Thai students. In the United States, maintaining eye contact is important while
having a conversation, particularly if it is a serious conversation. If you do not maintain eye
contact, you give the person who you are talking to the feeling that you are not interested in
what they are saying or that you are not being honest.
Disagreements
Our student seemed…shocked when we had a disagreement with our children. She
would never argue with her parents.
U.S. Host Family
It is impolite in Thai culture to openly disagree, especially a younger person disagreeing with an
older person. Thais are tolerant of most forms of behavior and never ask others to understand
Thai social customs, but these customs are extremely important to understanding why Thai
never criticize each other openly. Losing your temper or shouting is never acceptable in
Thailand, and your Thai student will be upset to observe such behavior in the home or at school.
Initially, Thai students may need calm, quiet explanations of the range of volume and
tones of voices they hear around them in different situations so they do not
misinterpret people.
Encourage your student to look an elder in the eyes during a conversation and
reinforce that doing so is a sign of respect for the elder. You, as the host family,
may accept your Thai student not looking directly at you but other elders, such
as a teacher, may misinterpret the lack of eye contact. Share this information
with your student’s teachers or your elder family members if you think this may
be an issue.

19.
16
It is also likely that the inability to disagree will spill over to unhappiness among siblings.
Rational discussion is often perceived as the continuation of an argument.
We tried to get the point across that the U.S. has been built on disagreement, even
with ‘voices of authority…’ The trick is to speak up respectfully.
U.S. Host Family
Conflict Resolution
In Thailand religious tradition strongly influences conflict-resolution styles. Thai Buddhist
emphasis on meditation and peaceful co-existence supports an indirect method of conflict
resolution. Conflicting parties may appear to agree based on their peaceful exchange of positive
affirmation, but they may continue to act in their own self-interest because, in fact, they may
have yet to come to an agreement. Each may rely indirectly on a third party to deliver the
message of their actual intent in a way that does not give offense.
Our Thai student was very relaxed and he did not have strong opinions regarding
politics or religion. He was a Buddhist and practiced in a very low key way. We did
not run into any “taboo” topics with him.
U.S. Host Family
Thai students tend to avoid conflict at all costs and will tell you they liked something they didn’t
like or they will say “yes” to an invitation that they don’t want to accept and therefore do not
attend. This can be very confusing for U.S. host family and school friends.
Problems are not addressed directly in Thai society and your Thai child will not be accustomed
to a teacher, friend, host parent coming to them with an issue and “hitting the nail on the head.”
The Thai child is familiar with a friend or teacher telling someone the problem and then the other
person coming to them and delicately dancing around the issue until it is understood. The new
generation, however, is beginning to adopt a more direct communication style.
Help your student understand that having an opinion is valued in our culture
and that discussions may seem confrontational when people are “just
expressing themselves.”
To solve a problem with your student try giving positive suggestions or hints of
what you would like to happen or how a task may best be done, as opposed to
first telling him or her that he or she is doing it wrong.
Engage the help of a trusted third party, such as a host sibling or your liaison to
help convey to the student how best to deal with a given situation.
Remember that you do not need to “teach a crocodile to swim” so only provide
input when and how it is needed.

20.
17
Nicknames
She came to understand and appreciate some American nicknames that were given
to her.
U.S. Host Family
Thai parents give nicknames to their children. These names often have no relationship to a
given name and can be made-up, humorous or a nonsense word. Sometimes they seem
strange translated into English (e.g. “Apple”). They are usually one syllable and are very useful
when compared to the length of many Thai names. Nicknames are not used in formal settings.
Use nicknames to show affection and friendship. However you might consider
asking your student to change his or her nickname if it is an offensive word in
English (such as “Porn” which is a common Thai nickname), or would be a
negative description of the student (“Hippo” would be fine for a slim student,
but might be considered inappropriate for someone who is chubby). If an
English translation of a Thai nickname is used be sure it is a name the Thai
student can pronounce clearly in English and be understood when he or she
introduces himself or herself to Americans. For example, names starting with
“r” may be hard to pronounce.

21.
18
Independence/Dependence
Thai students have not been encouraged to make their own decisions. Thai families tend to be
quite close and the parents are accustomed to making choices for their children. When families
eat together even the choice of food is made for them. This lack of choice also applies in Thai
high schools where the courses that students take at each grade level are set. Thai schools all
require uniforms and specify hairstyles. Thai students are not usually given many choices until
they go to upper secondary school or university or become financially independent from their
parents after college.
As a result of all these factors, students from Thailand may be unaccustomed to making choices
on their own and may need assistance especially early on in the exchange experience.
Thai girls seem to have a very hard time making decisions, even easy decisions.
They may need to be more prepared for this.
U.S. Host Family
She was very controlled by her natural mother and felt inferior if she did not make
the same choice her mother did.
U.S. Host Family
When I was first in the U.S. and was having to choose my own classes it was very
difficult. I just wanted someone to tell me what to take, I was not used to making
decisions for myself and it was terribly hard.
Thai Hosted Student
We value independence; they value getting along and not making waves.
U.S. Host Family
Help your Thai student learn to make decisions by giving limited choices and, if
necessary, explaining the advantages and disadvantages of each choice.

22.
19
Religion & Beliefs
Many Thai practices discussed throughout this handbook have their basis in Buddhist beliefs.
Specific practices will be addressed in separate sections. This section introduces issues which
may arise between host families and Thai students related to religious differences.
Thailand is a country with a constitution and a history of supporting a broad acceptance of
people of different religions. The king of Thailand has historically been Buddhist. In Thailand
Buddhism is a required class in school at every grade level unless a student's family requests
an exemption because they practice a different religion. Thai Muslim students may attend a
Muslim school and take classes on Islam.
94.6% of Thais are Buddhists, 4.6% are Muslim, 0.7% are Christian and 0.1% are other
religions including Hindu (2000 Census).
Most Thai students coming to the U.S. do not expect to be in a household which practices their
religion, or even in a community with others of their faith. However, exchange students still bring
with them their religious convictions and perspectives through which they view U.S. American
life.
Buddhism is generally practiced without communal services. Prayers can be private and often
unobserved by others. Traditional beliefs may also be practiced in some families. For example,
the head of the bed should not be toward the south, the direction to which the souls of the dead
go, nor toward the bathroom.
She didn’t follow the religion but was influenced by it.
U.S. Host Family
Both boys were superstitious. Our house backs to a creek. [According to] the boys,
a house that faces away from the water is good luck. When facing a big
test/challenge, it is common to bargain with Buddha. “If you’ll let me score well on
the test, I will run across Bangkok.” I don’t remember all the superstitions that we’ve
been told but they are common.
U.S. Host Family
Attending Religious Services
Many U.S. Americans regularly attend religious services as a family. The social life and youth
activities of some families are centered on their friends from their church, temple or mosque.
When a host son or daughter is of a different faith this can create a dilemma: Should the host
student be treated the same as their host siblings in attending religious services and activities?
U.S. American host families need to keep in mind that although their Thai
son or daughter may not attend religious services nor ever have embraced
traditional practices in Thailand, they come from a culture pervaded by
Buddhism and its beliefs and practices.

23.
20
The Christian religion is very different from Buddhism. She would attend church with
us periodically, but we didn’t force her. We also inquired about her faith, in an effort
to understand and express her feelings. We took her to a Buddhist temple and she
really enjoyed that, and respected us more for making that effort.
U.S. Host Family
Our student did “meditate” as part of his Buddhist faith. Occasionally I would
inadvertently interrupt this. He never seemed to mind. We discussed our different
religions openly and he did accompany us to our church a number of times.
U.S. Host Family
Oh wait… there is always the issue of CHURCH. As a family we attend church on
Sundays. We compromised on this a lot (both sides) and it worked out…but [the
Thai students] were unprepared for this aspect of our culture.
U.S. Host Family
I have learned to enjoy the differences and even celebrate them as part of our family
practices. For example, we’re Roman Catholic and always said the typical Catholic
prayer before eating…but now we say either a silent prayer or a more general
thanksgiving prayer whenever a non-Christian is present. It’s just a common
courtesy to be “inclusive” versus “in your face” with our faith.
U.S. Host Family
The Middle Way – Guiding Life Philosophy
Buddhist emphasis on meditation and peaceful co-existence may lead Thai students to react to
situations differently than a U.S. American student. You may not find extreme reactions in Thai
students. Instead they may have a calm, neutral-appearing response.
I became more aware of his acceptance of situation – he always accepted certain
things without trying to explain them or change them, unlike Americans, who always
want to “make it right.” I think this may be a reflection of his Buddhist upbringing.
U.S. Host Family
Exchange students are not to be expected to attend religious services or
activities. Exchange students may be invited to participate, as the student
wishes, for the cultural experience and social aspects. Beforehand, explain to
the student what to expect to see as well as your expectations for exchange
student behavior during services and prayers.
If possible, take your student to his/her place of worship for a special occasion.
The student will appreciate your thoughtfulness and also have an opportunity to
connect with his/her religious rituals.

24.
21
She had a completely different view about how to handle adversity and challenge.
As a Buddhist, she claimed that if you are striving for something and it does not
come easily, you should take that as a sign that it was not meant to be. There were
several times that we tried to encourage her to become involved in activities, but at
the first sign of even minor things like transportation complications or scheduling
conflicts, she would give up on the activity instead of finding a solution to make it
work. She told us on more than one occasion that it represented the "middle way";
following the path of least resistance as life presents it. This was unfortunately very
much at odds with some of our core beliefs.
U.S. Host Family
Ramadan for Muslim Students
The Muslim holiday that may have the most impact upon the family life of a family hosting a
Muslim Thai student is Ramadan, a month of fasting during daylight hours. This holiday falls
early in the hosting experience for year-program students, beginning sometime in August or
September, when communication may still be limited by the English language development of
the Thai student.
If the student is Muslim be ready for a different life for the duration of Ramadan,
providing place for prayer, etc. It takes a while before students talk about what
they’re doing, often because of communication (language) skills.
U.S. Host Family
Our student was Muslim so there were lots of family life and food differences. We
got to learn lots about the Muslim religions, its traditions, food requirements, fasting
periods, prayer periods, etc. Our student held fast to her beliefs while here in the
U.S.
U.S. Host Family
Host families should be careful to assess situations for their host student to
smooth the path when the student is encountering difficulties. A measured or
calm response to a situation by a Thai student should not necessarily be
interpreted as indifference or agreement. Discuss situations with your student to
prepare him or her for what is likely to happen, especially when the situation is
new.
Fortunately, there are many resources about typical Muslim practices during
Ramadan which host families should read prior to the beginning of the holiday.
Ask your exchange program representative for the YES Cultural Handbook and
see the web links for current year dates for Islamic Holidays and explanations of
the major holidays in Appendix E.
Remember your student will have his or her own preferences as to how to
observe his or her holiday and you should discuss specifically to what extent
and how the student wishes to observe the holiday in the U.S.

25.
22
We followed her Muslim diet, which prohibited pork and required a fast during
Ramadan. She showered twice a day.
U.S. Host Family
Our student was Muslim and so had different dietary requirements during Ramadan.
We were lucky as she was so easy to have in our home. She really became part of
our family.
U.S. Host Family
Wet dogs were not to be around her. She was ok with cats, but dogs represented
filth. This seemed strange until she explained it as part of her faith, and her need to
be clean when she prayed.
U.S. Host Family
Life Cycle Customs
Life cycle customs related to birthdays, weddings, childbirth, coming of age, school years, aging
relatives and death are other times that Thai students' religious customs may create differences
with U.S. American families. Events U.S. Americans put a large significance on, such as high
school graduation, may be viewed as less significant in Thai culture.
Both boys are from VERY close-knit families. They will live with their parents and
grandparents through college and until they are married. The U.S. culture values
independence from family. College kids move away, get an apartment and a job.
I appreciated the Thai family unity.
U.S. Host Family
Thai Buddhist students’ views on life and death, including reincarnation, and the rituals to
observe those events may differ significantly from those of the U.S. host family which can lead
to misunderstanding and even hurt feelings at an emotional time. Traditional Thai funerals last
for a week. Crying is discouraged during the funeral, so as not to worry the spirit of the
deceased.
She did not appreciate our pets. During the course of her stay, we lost two of our
four pets and she did not try to understand how this affected our family.
U.S. Host Family
He did not treat our family pets as members of the family as we do. When I
dispatched a dying rat, he was disturbed that I had injured or killed a living thing.
They respect all life and this didn't square with those beliefs.
U.S. Host Family
When the host family (or natural family of the exchange student back home) is
observing a life cycle event, the host family may wish to talk with their host son
or daughter about how that event would be celebrated in Thailand and its
significance, in contrast or similarity.

26.
23
Religious and National Symbols
Different religions use different symbols and icons as reminders to their practitioners of their
faith or beliefs. Catholic Christians may display a crucifix on their wall. Jews may wear a Star of
David or chai necklace or have a mezuzah on the doorpost of their house. All over Thailand one
sees spirit houses for the ancestors with fresh offerings of food and flowers. Large posters of
the King and Queen of Thailand are seen on display outside and indoors in Thailand, just as
American flags are flown outside or displayed all over the U.S.
These symbols evoke emotional responses based on the association the viewer has with the
religion, ethnic groups practicing the religion, historical events, etc. related to the symbol or
object. A Thai student might react in unexpected ways or fail to react; for example to a
decorated Christmas tree. Their reaction might seem unusual to their host family.
We took our student to a museum exhibit we thought was very intriguing. She was
unusually quiet and withdrawn. Upon asking, we found the objects in the exhibit
reminded her of an historic conflict where many of her countrymen suffered abuses.
This became an opportunity for our family to learn about the emotional toll on a
group of people of an event we had viewed before as just something in a history
book.
U.S. Host Family
Our student was insulted by the Asian design on the curtains we put up in her room.
What we associated with a positive travel experience, she saw as an indirect put-
down of her country. This might have partially explained her defensiveness about
everything from her country when we thought we were just being curious in a
positive way.
U.S. Host Family
As far as "taboo" topics, the only thing I would say is that the Thai people are very
affectionate [towards] their King. Any negative thing said about him would be an
insult.
U.S. Host Family
It is an unpardonable error of sacrilege to misuse a Buddha image. Icons should be kept in a
place of worship, not used as pieces of furniture, as ornaments, or for commercial
Before judging the student's reaction, the host family might want to ask their
exchange son or daughter what associations they have with the symbol or
object .
Show respect for religious symbols and rituals, and avoid touching spirit
houses and household altars if your student constructs them. Thai people,
particularly those from rural areas, can be highly superstitious and may feel the
need for lengthy ritual should you “contaminate” their sacred areas.

27.
24
advertisement. It is fine though to hang a Buddha from your neck. Many Thai people do so for
protection and to attract good luck.
U.S. Americans like to decorate their homes and gardens with Buddhist figures,
sometimes just a bust of Buddha, and many times the placement is on ground level.
Our student was offended by the impropriety of non-Buddhists displaying these
"decorations" in disrespectful manners. U.S. Host Family
Study Thai culture before hosting. There are a number of resources on the web that
can help out. Predominately, be yourself. [Our student] was very clear on that she
wanted to learn about culture here, but also wanted to teach us about Thai culture.
U.S. Host Family
Although our exchange student attended church with us and participated in youth
activities, he was a devout Buddhist and I believe we could have done more by
studying Buddhism. U.S. Host Family
We had done some research on Thai customs, etc., before her arrival. Some things
are important, especially if the student is Buddhist. While we are accustomed to
rubbing our children on the head as a sign of affection, this is an insult to a Buddhist,
as the top of the head is the most holy place. You also have to be careful not to point
your foot at someone's head, as the foot is the least holy, since it touches the
ground.
U.S. Host Family
Also be careful to respect the Buddhist attitudes toward the various parts of the
body. For example, patting someone on the top of the head is not acceptable
because the top of the body is considered to be the most holy. Similarly, putting
food near ones feet, e.g. having a lunch bag on the floor of the car near your
feet, may be distressing since the feet are the least holy part of the body.
Learning basic tenants of your Thai host son or daughter's religion can help
prevent misunderstandings and enhance your hosting experience.

28.
25
Holidays
Public holidays in Thailand include both national and religious holidays. Refer to Appendix D.
Religious holidays often create strong emotions in exchange students because of the
associated family gatherings, ritual, beliefs or activities tied to the holiday.
Sharing holiday traditions from the U.S. with your exchange student is often a rewarding cultural
exchange.
We certainly paid more attention to her Thai customs and holidays and she did to
ours. Made for a richer life.
U.S. Host Family
Traditions such as birthdays and, of course, religious holidays don’t culminate in
mounds of gifts as they do here. She was a bit surprised by all the presents she
received at those times. Surprised, but pleased.
U.S. Host Family
Be clear about your expectations from student. Let them know about your holidays
and how you celebrate them. Let them know when it would be expected to give a
gift, write a thank you note or participate in an event.
U.S. Host Family
(She) liked to wear the color yellow on Friday to signify King Day. She loved her
King.
U.S. Host Family
We all gained an appreciation of Thai culture – she had a big party on the King’s
birthday with squirt guns and everyone wore a yellow shirt.
U.S. Host Family
Host families may wish to familiarize themselves with the major religious
holidays of their Thai student so they can provide any extra support their
student might need. Host families can ask their student about how they
celebrate at home and may even be able to imitate a bit of the holiday in
America. Ex: Songkran in April, a water-splashing day in Thailand. Just
acknowledging the student's holiday may brighten their day and let them know
you want to understand their culture.
If possible host families may be able to make an effort a couple times during the
year to get their exchange student together with other Thais or people of the
same faith in the U.S. to celebrate a Thai or religious holiday together.

29.
26
Color Days
In Thai tradition, there is an astrological rule (which has influence from Hindu mythology) that
assigns color for each day of the week. The color is assigned based on the color of the God
who protects the day. These colors of the day are the traditional Thai birthday colors. For
example, King Bhumibol was born on Monday, so on his birthday throughout Thailand yellow
decorations adorn homes, businesses, schools, etc.
Day Color of the day Planet God of the day
Sunday red Sun Surya
Monday yellow Moon Chandra
Tuesday pink Mars Mangala
Wednesday green Mercury Budha
Thursday orange Jupiter Brihaspati
Friday blue Venus Shukra
Saturday purple Saturn Shani

30.
27
Family Life
Urban vs. Rural
Like the U.S., the majority of the population lives in the large cities, but most of the land is rural
and 42% of commercial business is still agricultural. City life is more similar to that in U.S. cities
with both parents usually working. Parental roles are more balanced, although the father usually
is not expected to cook or do household work. However, since schools run later, parents and
children tend to get home around the same time. City students have access to technology and
public transportation and may have more independence to go places. It is common to buy food
from street vendors, so a family may bring in some meals or students may eat snacks on their
way home.
Rural areas in Thailand differ more from the Thai cities than rural areas in the U.S. differ from
U.S. cities. Public utilities and technology are lacking and housing is significantly different in
rural Thailand. In the villages, extended family with many generations may live in one house or
several houses in a compound. Houses may be traditional, built on posts where domestic
animals like buffalos and chickens live below and the family lives above, often in a single room.
There is little privacy and the communal life style instills a strong sense of social harmony in
which tact, compromise, and tolerance are essential. The father is regarded as the leader, but
the mother also plays a significant role particularly in the family finances.
It is common in rural areas for children to be sent to a boarding school during the week, starting
when they are around U.S. American grade level 7, although they often come home for
weekends. Sometimes the children will be sent to live with a relative in a city to attend school.
Even in the cities children may attend boarding schools during the week starting as young as in
kindergarten, since transportation from home to a good school may take too much time.
She was from Bangkok and seemed to fit in to our life style easily.
U.S. Host Family
Relationships with Friends and Siblings
It was eye-opening to witness how difficult it was for such a warm and friendly
person to make friends at first.
U.S. Host Family
She made many acquaintances, but few friends. She picked friends very wisely and
specifically.
U.S. Host Family
คับที่อยูไดคับใจอยูยาก
Transliteration: khap thee yuu dai khap jai yuu yaak
Literal: Tight residence can, tight heart presence difficult
Meaning: It is possible to live in a small residence if you're happy with the people you
live with, but it is difficult to live even in a big residence if you're unhappy.

31.
28
Usually the Thai student will take longer to develop friends than is true for U.S. students or even
exchange students from other countries. While this is linked to the issue of independence and
the Thai school experience, it is also due to unfamiliarity with U.S. ways, the difficulties of
moving from classroom to classroom in U.S. schools, and/or problems with language. As
discussed under the section on schools, Thai schools are not structured like ours. The same
group of middle and high school students often spend years together in the classroom and
never change classmates. There are fewer organized sports or clubs, so the student might not
be an athlete. The student might meet someone in school in the U.S., but not try to make plans
to get together outside school. Thai students spend much of their time studying after school and
may not have friends over. In Thailand, parents work in round-about ways. They rarely stop
doting. If the mom wants her child to accomplish something at school, then she will call the
school and talk to a teacher to get the message to her child. The teacher works behind the
scene and gets things done, like course changes or arranging social encounters, which no U.S.
American parent could ever accomplish through the school teacher. The differences in schools
need to be understood by both family and students.
You need to facilitate peer interactions. Students are hesitant to ask adults for this
type of help, but the student will become very much more outgoing with their peers
as interactions increase and improve.
U.S. Host Family
She was in 10th
grade, but still very young, more on a 6th
grade level. She was into
Hello Kitty and the Disney Channel.
U.S. Host Family
Siblings in Thailand do not tend to be competitive. Thai students tend to be closest to siblings
nearest to them in age.
From your first days with your student, help him/her to find methods to meet
other students and to get involved in activities where he/she will get to know
their peers better than they have time to in the class or lunch room.

32.
29
Friendships
In Thai school boys are always friends with boys, and girls are always friends with girls. In
Thailand having friends of the opposite gender is discouraged. Students do many activities in
groups. Marriage is discouraged until one’s education is complete. Students do not hold hands
or engage in other behaviors (hugging, kissing) with students of the opposite gender and Thai
students may be uncomfortable with the interactions between opposite genders that they
witness at school. However, it is acceptable for students of the same sex to hold hands and to
walk together holding hands. Thai students are generally not accustomed to initiating plans and
will expect you as the host parent to suggest and/or arrange their schedule for them and they
will seek out your permission to participate in any after school activity.
Encourage the Thai kids to invite school friends to do things together outside of
school. Both of our Thai kids were shy about that.
U.S. Host Family
Our Thai boy was invited to attend a movie by guys from high school for the first time
in mid APRIL. That is a long time with a poor social life. He got along better with
"silly acting girls" who were outgoing and friendly.
U.S. Host Family
เพื่อนกินหางาย เพื่อนตายหายาก
Transliteration: pheuuan gin haa ngaay pheuuan dtaay haa yaak
Literal: Friends for a meal are easy to find, friends until end of life are difficult to find
Meaning: It is easy to find fair-weather friends in good times but hard to find real
friends who stand by you in all situations of life.
Try to find one or more students in the host school that could serve as a mentor
to your Thai student in the first days and weeks of school.

33.
30
Schools
Thai schools are organized differently than schools in the U.S. There is more structure, based
on cultural traditions, and classes are generally required with little choice of elective classes.
Teachers and students have a formal relationship. Students address them as “teacher first
name.” For example: Krue Krisanee or Ajarn Krisanee means Teacher Krisanee. The principal
is usually just called by his or her title of “Director.” While outside of class students may be noisy
and interactive, in the classroom the students are quiet and respectful. Like high schools in
many countries, for all but special classes such as computer and science labs, students remain
in the same room with their classmates for the entire day and the teachers circulate to the
various rooms. Most schoolwork is individual, not in groups or requiring presentations. Thai
students may find it difficult at first to work on assignments in groups and give presentations in
front of the class in the U.S. For more information on the Thai education system refer to
Appendix C.
Thai students may be surprised by the casual, friendly relationship between students and U.S.
teachers even when they are outside the school setting.
All of the boys commented about how "laid back" we were in schools and as a
society but they didn't really complain.
U.S. Host Family
All of my boys were very respectful to teachers and me as father/teacher.
U.S. Host Family
Assist your student in setting up a class schedule for high school. Instead of
asking “what classes would you like to take?” make suggestions on what you
think might be appropriate. Thai students might need to be encouraged to try
new classes that they can’t take at home.
A Muslim Thai girl wearing a head scarf as a religious statement should not be
limited in her school or co-curricular activities.
เดินตามผูใหญ หมาไมกัด
Transliteration: Dern tarm phu-yai mha mai khud
Literal: When you follow the old man, the dog will not bite.
Meaning: Follow the wiseman and you will be safe from harm.
ครูคือพระคุณที่สาม
Transliteration: Kru kue pra koon tee saam
Meaning: Thai teacher is the third most important person in a student’s life (after their
two parents).

34.
31
When some Thai students have the freedom to choose their clothes for the first
time they may go to extremes and dress inappropriately. Help your student to
make appropriate clothing choices for school the first few days until he or she
has an idea of what other students are wearing.
Social Activities and Sports at School
Your Thai student may find the emphasis on sports, the arts, and outdoor activities after school
unusual. They might prefer to spend the extra time after school on academics. They may lack
the social skills needed for team sports. In U.S. schools the challenge will be encouraging your
Thai student to take classes for fun and social opportunity, rather than only taking academic
classes.
Our student was academically prepared and very motivated for success. Although
she struggled a bit with English, especially at the beginning of her stay, she earned
above average grades.
U.S. High School
She was a member of the chorus, cheerleading, several clubs, and other activities.
She fit in very well with the senior class and made many friends.
U.S. High School
Homework
In Thailand students are required to complete and hand in homework, however it is not graded
and it does not contribute to the student’s final grade. Since it is not graded, homework may be
copied directly from another student or cut and pasted from the internet. It is checked to
determine if it has been completed. Homework is called “process” while tests are called
“knowledge.” Students often have free periods during the school day to socialize or complete
homework.
Thai students might do well if they sign up for some classes that encourage
social interaction, like drama, foods, music, physical education, etc. Also
encourage after-school sports as another way for Thai students to learn social
skills and make friends.
Since homework is graded in the U.S. and copying other student’s work or
cutting and pasting from the internet on a topic is not allowed, this can cause
confusion and poor grades in school. Clearly explain the importance of
homework towards the final grade and expectations for a student to do all his or
her own work and to hand it in on time.

35.
32
Thai students have a “high need to get ‘A's’... an ‘A-‘ is seen as not good... or even
BAD. A ‘B’ is seen as unacceptable.
U.S. Host Family
Thai students already seem to have a good work ethic. Sometimes it's hard to get
them to do something creative in school because of the need to do such high
science or math oriented classes.
U.S. Host Family
English Learning
For Thai students, learning English can be a challenge, especially for students from the rural
areas of Thailand. Thai students learn English as a foreign language as opposed to English as
a second language. They may not learn conversational English or practice speaking aloud in
English, except to repeat words or phrases after the teacher. The teachers are not generally
native English speakers, particularly in rural areas.
Muslim Students at School
Muslim students may need a clean location for daily prayers at school and/or release time for
prayers, including being off campus for some Friday prayers, and understanding for the use of
head coverings and other apparel.
Review your student’s homework assignments with him/her during the first
weeks of school to reinforce the importance of completing homework on time.
You may need to provide or arrange for your student to receive help with his/her
homework from a host sibling or other student. This will have the added benefit
of providing another opportunity for social interaction for your student.
Help your student improve his or her spoken English by having casual
conversations. Encourage younger children to speak with your student. Your
student may want to sign up to be a teacher’s aide at an elementary school.
Watching movies with subtitles can help for learning conversation. Reading
children’s books aloud and, best of all, making friends his or her own age will
improve spoken English.
An understanding about the use of head coverings and other apparel would be
good for host families to know in advance.
It would be helpful for host parents to contact the school to make sure they are
aware of the student’s needs related to religion.

36.
33
School Support
A Thai student may not speak up for himself or herself about class assignments, scheduling or
personal needs. Although a Thai student might talk about the problem, he or she won’t
necessarily discuss this with someone who could help make needed changes.
I spent WEEKS trying to convince him to ask us when he didn't understand
something and he just ‘couldn't’ 98% of the time.
U.S. Host Family
It is usually a shock to their system that there is so much available to them, both
educationally and socially.
U.S. High School
School Fees
In the U.S. there are fees for lunches, student body cards, sports, dances, sports clothing,
sports equipment, physical for sports, yearbook, class fees/trips, etc. In Thailand the costs at
school are funded by the school or family.
Open or Closed Campus
In Thai schools all campuses are closed and may have guards. Some schools in the U.S. have
open campuses where a student is permitted to leave a school campus during the time school is
in session, e.g. for lunch. They may first need to receive an off-campus permit which has been
requested by their parent or guardian.
Host parents might ask the school counselor to arrange for a teacher or other
contact at school to take the Thai student “under his or her wing” to talk to
about the student’s specific needs.
U.S. American schools require all medications, even over-the-counter
medicines, to be kept at the school office and dispensed by a school employee.
Thai students will be used to bringing their own medicines and taking them by
themselves at school. If medicine is needed, explain the U.S. school
requirements for medicine dispensing to your Thai student and get the proper
paperwork signed.
Explain to your student which school fees and expenses he or she will be
expected to pay and when during the school year they are due.

37.
34
Social Values
Pregnant teens or teens with children are not atypical in U.S. high schools, but would almost
never be found in Thailand. Teenagers in Thailand are generally not allowed to date.
Another shock was when she sat beside a pregnant student in class. This never
would have happened in Thailand.
U.S. Host Family
Personal Hygiene
Personal hygiene is often a difficult topic for U.S. American families to discuss, but cultural
differences often create issues for host families and Thai exchange students.
Although some Thai students from the big cities live in modern houses with western style
bathrooms, typical Thai bathrooms are very different from U.S. American bathrooms. U.S.
American bathrooms are kept dry except in the bathtub or shower enclosure. Thai bathrooms
are tiled all over and water can be splashed anywhere. U.S. American toilets flush using a
handle and toilet paper is flushed down the toilet. Thai toilets are flushed using scoops of water
from a clean basin or wall faucet and the body is rinsed with a water sprayer. Toilet paper is not
flushed down a Thai toilet, but if it is used, it is placed in the waste basket. If a Thai student puts
soiled toilet paper in the wastebasket a U.S. American family is likely to be upset and wonder
why. The Thai student may be wondering where is the water sprayer for washing themselves
and be uncomfortable having to use toilet paper.
Explain to your Thai student what it means when his or her school has an open
campus and what steps he or she will need to take, if any, before leaving
campus.
Host families need to take the time to carefully show Thai students how to use
toilets, showers, baths and sinks at their house. How to properly turn on, adjust
the temperature and turn off faucets needs to be demonstrated. The details of
toilet paper usage, proper amounts and disposal may need to be discussed, as
well as the distinction between toilet paper, facial tissues and paper towels and
how they are to be disposed. Proper disposal of feminine hygiene products
needs to be discussed with girls. Where to get and hang towels after usage
should be explained. If the student will be cleaning his/her own bathroom, how
to do so and what products to be used should be demonstrated. Fire
extinguishers and safety electrical outlet resetting may be shown.
Remember, however, a student is often fatigued when they first arrive and their
understanding of English may be minimized when they are tired, so you may
need to repeat all these instructions a few times in the weeks after their arrival.

38.
35
Thai showers and bathtubs may be in a separate area in the bathroom, but shower curtains are
not needed because the entire bathroom is tiled and has drainage. Thai students often take
showers two or more times a day because of the hot weather in Thailand. When they shower
they will also put on fresh clothing because of perspiration. Students may use two towels when
they shower as explained below.
Hot water is often expensive in the U.S. so host families in temperate climates may not want
their Thai student showering as often and generating as much dirty laundry as they have been
used to.
In the U.S. students are expected to use deodorant, brush their teeth, and keep their skin clean.
To be accepted in a U.S. school these are important considerations in order to make friends and
be accepted.
Thai people wash the top of the body clothes separately from the bottom half, i.e. shirts and
sweaters go in one wash and socks, underwear and pants go in another. This is because, as
Buddhists, they believe the lower part of the body is unclean. This is part of their religion. A
Buddhist Thai would also never take off or put on a skirt over their heads for the same reason.
The same rule applies when hanging out the washing on the line. Clothes from the lower part of
the body are not placed next to or higher than clothes worn on the top part of the body.
The same rule applies to drying yourself after washing. If you take a shower you should not use
the same towel for the whole body, the correct way is to use one for the upper part (the head)
and another for the lower parts. It would be useful to make sure your Thai student has more
than one towel in case this is an issue with them.
Muslim students may need to rinse their arms, hands, legs, feet and face
before prayer five times a day. They may be used to dripping dry in hot
weather, but the host family may want the bathroom floor kept dry.
Accommodations can be made with a pail for water in the bathtub or a
hand held water sprayer in the shower and floor mats to be used, then
hung to dry.
Explain bathing standards and the use of shower curtains and bathing
times in your household along with why washing less often may be
required in cooler weather. Tell the student of the expense of heating
water for showers and laundry. Explain how and when laundry is to be
washed, dried and folded. If the student is expected to do his or her own
laundry, be sure to carefully explain how to properly use the machines.
These instructions may have to be refined or repeated.
If you notice any personal hygiene issues with your Thai student, address
them immediately so the student will be accepted in school. For example,
if a student has body odor explain what they should used and give them
deodorant or take them shopping as he or she may not know where to
purchase deodorant in the U.S. The same may be true for skin care
products or toothpaste and toothbrush.

39.
36
Our Thai daughter washed her own underwear and socks, but everything else went
into the regular laundry with the family clothes.
U.S. Host Family
Other Factors
There are many external cultural factors which are not part of the student-family relationship, but
which nevertheless have an impact on the student becoming part of a new culture and having to
live in a different environment. Some of these are listed here, but we encourage host families to
do further reading on them using some of the suggested readings at the end of the handbook.
Economy
Average income in the two countries is quite different. This affects the price of things relative to
the student’s experience. Even those students who come from affluent families may be
reluctant to purchase things which seem too expensive to them (e.g. clothing, food, books).
However, they may be quite willing to spend money on things which seem cheaper to them (e.g.
electronics).
Internet Availability
Students in most Thai cities are accustomed to having ready access to high-speed Internet.
Thai parents do not normally monitor student internet use or content since they themselves may
not be computer savvy, so the student may be used to accessing adult content and games. In
Thailand cell phone usage is normal and inexpensive.
ขี่ชางจับตั๊กแตน
Transliteration: Kee chang jahb thak-a-thaen
Literal: [Don’t] Ride an elephant to catch a grasshopper.
Meaning: Use the correct tool for the correct job.
Host parents often need to give students advise about what is a good
value and what items they need to purchase versus what items are
optional.
Upon arrival let students know if and how you will be monitoring their computer
usage for time online and acceptable content. Advise your student about the
cost of cell phone plans and texting here in the U.S.

40.
37
Environmental Issues
In many ways the U.S. is a “throw away” society and we generate huge amounts of waste
compared to Thailand. However, recycling programs are not common in Thailand and waste is
becoming a problem.
Concept of Time in Thailand
The Mai Pen Rai philosophy is well demonstrated by the Thai concept of time. Estimates of
time, in terms of the past or the future, can be vague or even wildly inaccurate in Thailand.
In the countryside times of the day may be counted in the traditional way of the number of
gongs after a time in the morning or noon. For example, 3 a.m. can mean 3 gongs (or hours)
after 6 a.m. in the morning which would be 9 a.m. There is no past/future tense in the Thai
language. In Thailand, people are often late for appointments, but nobody seems to mind
waiting. Traffic jams are common, restaurant service, and hotel check-in procedures can seem
slow and inefficient, but you won't see Thai people getting upset about it. If you must ask
”When will you be ready to leave?” or “when will this job be done?” go ahead. But be prepared
for an answer that proves wrong, not because of bad planning, but simply a different attitude
towards time.
Thai Food and Etiquette
Thai cuisine blends four distinct tastes through the use of various ingredients:
-spicy hot (chilies)
-sour (vinegar, tamarind, lime)
-sweet (fruits, sweet peppers)
-salty (soy sauce, fish sauce)
These are combined for most meals with additional flavors being added with herbs and spices,
especially lemongrass, turmeric, garlic, ginger and sweet Thai basil. The presentation of the
food is very important and will often include vegetable and fruit “sculptures” as decoration for an
important meal or on a buffet. Rice will be a staple at every meal.
Talk to your student about how the recycling program works in your community
– separation of different types of recyclables, what is not recycled, etc.
Discuss the family and school schedule with your student and expectations as
to how far in advance of leaving you expect the student to be ready to go.

41.
38
Thai families generally eat together, most often at the evening meal. Once the eldest person
starts eating the others can start.
Most Thai food is prepared or put on the plate in bite-size units—most easily handled with a
spoon and fork. . Don’t be surprised when your Thai student does not quite know where to start
when eating a six-ounce chunk of meat. No knife is needed at the table.
He did not know how to use a knife and fork!
U.S. Host Family
Instead of passing serving dishes around, they are placed in the center of the eating area and
each person serves themselves small amounts, leaving the serving spoon in the dish.
At the dinner table our student reached across the table for food instead of asking….
U.S. Host Family
Thai mothers or domestic help cook for Thai children. They may purchase food at school or
from a street vendor, but they are unlikely to be used to preparing meals for themselves.
The need for spicy food dropped considerably through the year.
U.S. Host Family
Thai food is generally eaten with spicy sauces, which can be used on almost all foods and at
almost all meals.
Be patient with table manners initially and help the student learn U.S. American
eating style and utensils.
If the student is expected to prepare his or her own meals, for example for
breakfast, or to make a sandwich or heat leftovers, the host family will need to
show the student how and let him or her know when to do so.
Have the student cook with and for you. It will give them a chance to share in a
non-verbal way the differences in food. And it helps to bring the student into the
family life.
Get a favorite hot sauce and dried ground chilies and keep them on the table for
your student. And don’t be insulted when these are used at each meal.

42.
39
Modesty/Nudity/Sexuality
Modesty
Compared to many other cultures, students from Thailand are
quite modest, especially in their dress. This is noticeable not
only in schools, where the students wear uniforms, but in other
public venues as well.
For example, whereas people going to the beach in the U.S.
are apt to have on a minimal amount of clothing and lie in the
sun to get a good tan, such activities would be frowned upon
in Thailand. Thai
beaches that are
frequented by the
Thai people are
often covered with
umbrellas so that
people may stay out of the sun. Those that do go in
the water are apt to be fully clothed. Darker skin in
Thailand is viewed as an attribute of the lower class
(people who have to work outside in the sun), and is
generally avoided.
Our student seemed to be more modest than most teenage girls. She was very
confident in herself and did not need to follow trends.
U.S. Host Family
He was very modest (physically) e.g., he had trouble with high school dances and
wouldn't even consider playing sports because he didn't want a physical.
U.S. Host Family
She wore jeans to school here, while at home she wore a uniform. She wore make-
up to school, at home she could not.
U.S. Host Family
[Our student] was very, very shy and self-conscious about showing his body, even
though we had had a number of pictures of him at the beach with his family before
he arrived. We also had a pool at our house, and it was difficult to persuade him to
get in with the other students and teens when we had parties, or to go to the water
park with them. He eventually did when we found a really baggy jamz type swimsuit
อยาเปดฝาเรือน
Transliteration: yaa bpeert faa reuuan
Literal: Don't open a wall of your house.

43.
40
for him to wear along with a T-shirt.
U.S. Host Family
She was very uncomfortable if my husband removed his shirt (in the summer, in the
yard or at the beach).
U.S. Host Family
She had cultural concerns about having dark skin and therefore would not spend
time in the sun even to play a game of croquet. She would use an umbrella outside
on sunny days and had special lotion for whitening her skin.
U.S. Host Family
He also did not want to go swimming or be outdoors too much in the heat of the day.
Did not want his skin to darken AT ALL.
U.S. Host Family
Nudity/Sexuality
Thai students do not expect to date or have friends of the opposite sex during high school.
Touching someone of the opposite sex in public is considered inappropriate, but friends of the
same sex, generally only females, may hold hands or put an arm around each other’s
shoulders. Spending the night at friend’s houses is not common.
Public nudity is prohibited and showering after physical education class in school is unlikely.
Muslim girls may keep their head covered will remain covered around all men who are not
relatives – this may include the host father. This is a dictate from the Koran on modesty. The
Muslim girl will then only show herself to her husband, once married.
I have had our own kids take very frank sex ed classes, and had a previous
exchange student (from Norway) who slept over with his girlfriend, so I asked her if
she planned to have a boyfriend while she was here (the girlfriend situation had
been a big headache for us, and I told her so). She was quiet at first, then said she
would be a virgin when she married, so I didn't need to worry. It was a frank answer,
she was not shocked by my asking, and I thanked her for being honest and also
because that was an excellent and wise plan, which would also save us/ me a lot of
trouble!
U.S. Host Family

44.
41
We recommend our students join sports teams, and our son was on the swim
team. She considered joining, but it was only after she went to one of the
team's early parties and had a good conversation with one of the other
students that she decided she would. She then asked me to take her to buy
tampons, and surprised me in the aisle when presented with the options --
she had never used one before. So right there we discussed the various
kinds (I am a gynecologist), and thereafter she never needed any assistance.
She also recommended to other Thai girls that they too could join their school
swim teams, but the other girls were too shy, or perhaps couldn't bear the
idea of using tampons. This was the first inkling I had that our girl, though
very quiet, was really brave.
U.S. Host Family
Host families may wish to open the topic of dating and mixed group
parties with their exchange student so the student will feel more open to
asking for advice if she or he needs help understanding the social
situation of her or his U.S. peers and how she or he can safely participate.
Talk to your student about the differences between Thai sexual values
and relationships and those in your community and family.

45.
42
Diversity/Prejudice/Disability
Diversity
Outside of Thailand’s capital and other cities, many residents have had relatively little sustained
exposure to other cultures, races, religions, and lifestyles, though they may have had some
contact with the many tourists who visit each year. What people view as typical U.S. American
behavior or norms may be a misconception, such as the belief that all U.S. Americans are rich
and have blond hair and blue eyes.
Although the majority of Thailand’s population is both Buddhist and ethnically and linguistically
Thai, there are regional linguistic, cultural, and socioeconomic differences. The presence of
many non-Thai groups also contributes to the diversity of the country. Thais generally
emphasize their commonalities and the strengths that diversity contributes to their country.
When differences are expressed, it is generally in subtle ways that require linguistic and cultural
understanding to grasp. Thais’ emphasis on tolerance, maintaining smooth relationships, and a
sense of order creates a generally welcoming environment.
Despite the ideal of social harmony, there are some conflicts, which are readily apparent in the
tabloid press. Thailand’s social structure includes an inherent hierarchy, with competing beliefs
about who is entitled to what. Thais often attempt to hide conflict as they wish to maintain
harmony in the face of diversity.
Many Thais are not well-informed about the ethnic and racial diversity of the United States, and
they therefore expect U.S. Americans to be Caucasian. In addition, many Thais view lighter skin
as more beautiful, a perception based more on an aesthetic bias than any racial prejudice and
one that existed long before encounters between Thailand and the West. African-American’s, in
particular, should not take Thais’ views of skin color personally and should try to see them within
this context. In addition, students from rural villages may have a difficult time seeing some
people of color as U.S. Americans. Thai students might tell you they don’t want to get dark and
avoid activities that put them in direct sunlight.
เขาเมืองตาหลิ่ว ตองหลิ่วตาตาม
Transliteration: Khao mueng tar-lew, tong lew-tar tarm
Literal: When in the city of the slanted-eyed, do squint your eyes.
Meaning: When in Rome, do as the Romans do.

46.
43
Diversity in Thailand: Thai (80%), Chinese (10%), Malay (3%), and the rest are minorities
(Mons, Khmers, hill tribes). Ethnic Thais form the majority, though the area has historically been
a migratory crossroads, and has thus produced a degree of ethnic diversity. Integration is the
norm in Thailand. Culturally and socially there is typically unity and acceptance.
Disabilities
In the U.S., the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has made accommodation of those with
disabilities a national requirement. The same is not true in Thailand. People with handicaps in
Thailand are very sheltered, protected and kept at home. Therefore many Thai students may
have had limited contact with individuals with disabilities. Currently Thais are trying to improve
the number of specialized schools for the handicapped beyond deaf and blind students. Thais
have not yet begun to mainstream children with disabilities.
You can respect the desire to avoid excessive sunlight by giving them a sunhat
and sunscreen. This is a Thai value and not a comment on diversity.
As a host family you can help your Thai student understand the diversity in the
United States by exploring cultural, racial, and religious diversity by attending
ethnic celebrations, pointing out (maybe even visiting) the different churches,
mosques, temples and synagogues; particularly if you live in or visit a large city.

47.
44
Acknowledgements
This publication is made possible through support from the United States Department of State
Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. http://exchanges.state.gov
The following individuals from AFS were responsible for the contents of this handbook:
AFS-USA Volunteers:
Lisa Abeles-Allison – Head of Lakes Area Team
Holly Dowe – World Flags Area Team
Abigail Munro-Proulx – North West California Area Team
Alan Russell – DelMarPa Area Team – Team Chair
Linda Woolston – New Jersey Area Team
AFS-USA Staff
Ashley Collins – returnee from Peace Corps in Thailand
Robin Weber – Manager, Intercultural Education and Quality
AFS-Thailand Volunteers
Suporn Banjong – Kamphaengphet Chapter, visiting teacher 2004-2005
Watcharakorn (Ahm) Khajudparn – returnee Thailand-USA 1998-1999
Napaporn (Doi) Klinchan – Surathampitak School, visiting teacher 2001-2002
Anissa Naksewee – returnee Thailand-USA 2006-2007
Krisanee Suwannaprasert – Phitsanulok Pittayakom School
Nattawut (Boom) Wetprasit – returnee Thailand-USA 2007-2008
AFS-Thailand Staff
Shirani Tapananonta – Coordinator
AFS-USA maintains this handbook on behalf of its YES consortium partners including ACES,
AIFS Foundation, CIEE and PAX
Cover pictures courtesy of Group members & Knia Robinson

48. Appendix A – Activities
Communication
What do you want to achieve when you communicate with someone else? Rank each of the
communication goals listed below in order of their importance to you.
___ Convey information
___ Show how you feel about the relationship
___ Create a good impression
___ Convey respect for the other person
___ Reach agreement
___ Maintain harmony
___ Make the other person feel happy
___ Maintain the other person’s interest
___ Make sure the other person is comfortable and not embarrassed by the conversation.
Why did you rank them in this order?
All of these things may be important to you, but some are generally more important in one
culture than another. Ask your participant how he or she would respond and discuss your
responses together.
Take it a step further by asking other people whom you view as somewhat culturally different
from you how they would respond and discuss your responses together. Remember, culture is
not just determined by geography, it is also determined by factors such as age group, ethnicity,
gender, shared context, and level of ability.

49.
46
Appendix B – References and Further Reading
AFS Cultural Handbook for the YES Program. (2007-09 edition). New York. AFS Intercultural
Programs, Inc. 2009.
AFS Host Family Handbook. (2009 edition). New York, AFS Intercultural Programs, Inc. 2009.
AFS YES Host Family Handbook (2009 edition), New York, AFS Intercultural Programs, Inc.
2009
Cooper, Robert, Culture Shock! Thailand: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette
(paperback), Sept. 2008, Marshall Cavendish Corp., NY. NY.
Gray, Paul and Redout, Lucy, The Rough Guide: Thailand
Jones, Roger, Thailand-Culture Smart! The Essential Guide to Customs and Culture
(paperback), @003, rev. 2008 (7th
printing), Random House Distribution Services, NY, NY.
Kislenko, Arne, Culture and Customs of Thailand, 2004, Greenwood Press, Westport, CO.
Williams, Judy. Thai Cooking, 2004, Paragon Books, Ltd.
YES Cultural Handbook
Web Sites:
Thaistudents.com: interesting site from a school 35 miles South of Bangkok. Good pictures
and information about life in a Thai school.
CultureGrams. 13 April 2009. <www.CultureGrams.org>. [subscription required for access]
<http://www.worldofquotes.com/proverb/Thai/1/index.html> World of Quotes – Thailand. 17
April 2009.
http://www.peacecorpswiki.org/Diversity_and_cross-cultural_issues_in_Thailand
http://www.peacecorps.gov/wws/educators/enrichment/culturematters/index.html
“Thai Cuisine” from Wikipedia: an excellent overview of ingredients.
CIA Factbook - https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/th.html
http://www.godweb.org/IslamCalendar.htm
http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0760942.html
Thai Holidays
http://krabidir.com/info/thailand-holidays/
http://www.qppstudio.net/publicholidays2009/thailand.htm

50.
47
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public holidays in Thailand
http://www.kingdom-of-thailand.com/festivals.htm
http://www.th4u.com/thai_public_holidays.htm
http://www.travexnet.com/thai_public_holidays.html
Islamic Holidays
http://www.godweb.org/IslamCalendar.htm
http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0760942.html